Utah has a growing number of opportunities in the nursing field. Within the state, LPNs make up 11 % of nurses in the state. The Utah LPN comfort score is 67. This takes into account the average LPN salary, average state salary and cost of living. The Utah RN comfort score is higher at 96. It is always advisable continue moving forward in one’s career and obtaining an RN degree. The scores in this state indicate it would be a worthwhile investment. Utah nursing schools and universities can provide more information that can help you pursue either degree. The cities of Salt Lake City and Provo will have the most prevalent number of potential educational institutions and job opportunities for an LPN.

Apply for licensure with the Utah Board of Nursing ($85 fee) – Have your school send your transcript to them as well

Obtain a CPR card and pass the NCLEX-PN exam

LPN Salaries in Utah
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) in Utah earn an average of $19.16/hr and a yearly income of $39,840. Nurses working in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries than in non-metropolitan parts of the state, although there is likely to be a relatively higher cost of living in those areas. An LPN can work in a variety of areas within the nursing field including nursing care facilities, hospitals or a physicians’ office. Nurses working in general medical and surgical hospitals typically earn more than those working in the offices of physicians. Also, nurses make more per hour when shifts are at night or during weekends and holidays. When choosing a career path within the industry, salary is only one piece to consider. Many LPNs find a more rewarding career in a family office rather than a hospital, despite a lower salary. It is advisable for LPNs to look towards home health care agencies and long-term care facilities are the fastest growing potential employers. The LPN with several years of experience and those with certifications in geriatric health are going to be in higher demand.It is crucial to begin trying to figure out which area is the best fit for you as early as possible. TTake advantage of all the offered nursing classes and programs as well as continue to educate yourself and research all the available options before deciding.

LPN Degree and Education in Utah
In the state of Utah, the practical nursing program is the quickest route to becoming a nurse. To earn a degree requires one year of courses as well as hands-on practice. You are required to obtain a CPR card, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam upon completion of the LPN course. Registered nurses with at least a bachelor’s degree will have better job prospects than those without. In addition, all advanced practice specialties – clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, midwives, and anesthetists – are and will remain in high demand, particularly in medically underserved areas such as inner cities and rural areas. With any questions about nursing programs and specific requirements, contact the admissions office of your chosen college or school.

Utah licensed RNs and LPNs are required to renew their licenses every two years. In order to renew licenses one of three requirements must be attained. These include, 400 practice hours, 200 practice hours and 15 state approved continuing education hours or 30 state approved continuing education hours.

Utah LPN Job Outlook
The nursing shortage in The United States is steadily increasing. There is a rising demand for new and more effective health procedures and life expectancy averages are continuing to climb. These issues will be reflected in the Utah health industry and help to create an extremely strong job outlook for LPNs. The Utah Nurses Association reports that Utah is experiencing a 50 to 70 percent vacancy in nursing positions. The nursing ratio is 592 nurses per 100,000 population while nationally the average is 792 per 100,000. Utah hospitals, home health companies and doctor offices are now offering flexible schedules, educational benefits, higher pay and other incentives to retain their staff and to recruit new nurses. Some hospitals are even offering sign on bonuses or student loan reimbursement up to certain maximums.

The comfort score of 67 indicates that an LPN in Utah is fairly compensated for the job they perform. The state ranks in the middle as far as the national scores. Obtaining an RN degree will increase the score to 96. It is always advisable to continue working towards an RN degree and these numbers suggest it is worth the investment to do so. Overall, the future for Utah nursing looks very bright. A career as an LPN in this state can provide opportunities and security.

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